Creality introduces V2 variant of Ender-3-3d printer
Creality has released an updated version of its popular Ender-3-3d printer. This V2 version is equipped with a new motherboard, renewed interface and an improved power supply.
The original Ender-3 from Creality, a Chinese manufacturer of 3D printers, has proved very popular for its combination of low price and good modifiability. The printer is regularly for sale for around 150 euros and through Thingiverse, among others, many upgrades can be found for the printer. With the introduction of the Ender-3 V2, Creality has made several upgrades that many do-it-yourselfers perform. For example, the V2 variant has received a new motherboard with silent stepper motor drivers. The standard A4988 drivers have been replaced by TMC2208 drivers, which make the stepper motors virtually silent.
The hotend has also been addressed, but it is not clear what exactly is hidden under the shroud. However, the Ender-3 V2 will now be supplied as standard with a glass hotbed, which is finished with a layer of carborundum, or silicon carbide. This should improve the adhesion of the critical first layer and ensure a more even heat of the bed. The drive belts can be tensioned more easily with rotary knobs and the stepper motor for the extruder has also been given a large rotary knob to simplify the manual feeding of filament.
The Ender-3 V2 has also received a new user interface: the matrix screen with rotary knob has been replaced by a graphic LCD, with rotary knob and touch interface. Furthermore, the power supply has been upgraded to a Meanwell power supply and the power supply is now hidden under the printer, instead of perpendicular to the frame. At the bottom of the printer is also a tray for small tools, such as side cutters and Allen keys for maintenance on the printer. The printer also seems to have received a sensor that detects when the filament has run out, so that the print can be resumed with new filament.
The main specifications of the Ender-3 have not changed: for example, the construction volume is unchanged with a construction plate of 220 by 220 millimeters and prints of 250 mm high can be made. The dimensions of the printer have also remained virtually the same. The Ender-3 V2 could be delivered from mid-June and costs 269 dollars upon introduction: the euro price is not yet known, but would be converted to about 246 euros.